Why are Phúc (Blessing), Thọ (Longevity), and Lộc (Prosperity) Often Combined?
An Nam, along with other nations in the Far East, is a land steeped in memory, symbols, and emblems.
Gustave Dumoutier, a renowned scholar of Indochina, left behind a legacy of valuable research, notably "Funerals of the Annamese" and "Symbols, Emblems and Cult Objects of the Annamese."
The Significance of Phúc, Thọ, and Lộc
In his book, "Symbols, Emblems and Cult Objects of the Annamese," Dumoutier highlights the traditional Annamese practice of combining Phúc (福), Thọ (壽), and Lộc (祿).
These three characters are incredibly popular symbols. "Phúc" represents good fortune and blessings, "Thọ" signifies longevity and a long life, and "Lộc" embodies prosperity and wealth. Together, they represent a well-rounded and desirable life.
How These Symbols Were Used
The Annamese would paint these characters on red paper, the color of good fortune, and display them in their homes and temples. They also gifted these characters to friends and family, particularly their parents. Gardens and courtyards were often adorned with topiary and flower beds shaped like the characters "Phúc" and "Thọ," further emphasizing their importance.
During the Annamese New Year festivities, it was common to see large images given as gifts to friends and parents, and adorning doors and walls, featuring elderly men with white beards carrying or wearing peaches, apricots, and pomegranates, each inscribed with the characters "Phúc" and "Thọ."
Variations and Decorative Use
The characters "Phúc" and "Thọ" were frequently used in decorative art, often appearing in classic styles, sometimes circular, square, or even gourd-shaped.
Other Symbols of Good Fortune
Besides these characters, families also used other symbols to attract good fortune.
- Roosters: Images of roosters were placed on doors to ward off evil spirits. The rooster symbolizes the sun, whose arrival is heralded by the rooster's morning crow. It represents the east, the direction of sunrise, and brings light and life to the world. This connection explains the tradition of sacrificing three roosters during the spring festival.
Learn more in "SYMBOLS, EMBLEMS AND CULT OBJECTS OF THE ANNAMESE" by Gustave Dumoutier.
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